With just one match remaining this season, thoughts are now turning towards the summer transfer market and the Rovers manager is setting his sights on bringing in a whole raft of new signings ahead of the new campaign.

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Cristian Montano has been deemed surplus to requirements at Rovers (Image: Alex James/JMP)

“I’ve got a senior squad of 14 contracted players now and I’ll be looking to recruit 10 or 11 players in the summer to make us competitive,” admitted Clarke.

Rovers have managed to climb the leagues in the past three seasons without breaking the bank for any big money signings and Clarke is keen to continue that trend when he meets for discussions with the board about transfer budgets next month.

“I won’t waste money, it’s not a lot about money, it’s about getting the right players in. I know that now is the right time to invest and get good players to go with the fantastic players I’ve got,” said Clarke.

“Everything comes down to the budget, I’ve got meetings in the middle of May to see what the budget is and how we’re going to go about recruitment. There will be plenty of talks with the owner and the chairman and Steve Brookfield [Financial Director]. When we get that we will be finalising our plans.”

Ellis Harrison is one five players offered new deals at the Memorial Stadium (Image: Robbie Stephenson/JMP)

There is a feeling among some that this season marks the end of an era for the Rovers side that brought them back from the non-league and the beginning of a Rovers side who can challenge for League One promotion.

Clarke already believes this summer takes on an extra importance.

“I think there is more of an importance in getting very good players in this year if I’m being honest. I’m an impatient man and we want to build success. I want to have a right good go next year,” said the Rovers boss.

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Gasheads will now be hoping Clarke can build on three sensational seasons with some real quality additions in the summer, and the manager is keen to utilise the loan market once again.

“Everybody would like a 25 man squad of all your own players. But everything comes down to budget, and loan players at times can cost you a lot less than permanent players, it’s more than likely we’ll be dipping into the market,” said Clarke.